Leicestershire prepares for one of its busiest summers with a list of big events
Leicestershire is gearing up for an action-packed summer with a variety of events lined up to entertain locals and visitors alike. From music festivals to horse races and historic reenactments, the county is set to be abuzz with activity.
One of the major events kicking off the summer season is the Download festival at Donington Park, which is just the beginning of the fun. Visit Leicester, the organization responsible for promoting tourism in the area, has highlighted a range of other exciting events happening around the county. With a diverse lineup of attractions, Leicestershire is poised to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors throughout the summer months, solidifying its reputation as a vibrant destination for festivals, live entertainment, sports, and heritage events.
Music enthusiasts can look forward to a range of festivals catering to various tastes. The Long Road Festival, set to take place at Stanford Hall, will showcase Country, Americana, and Roots music, featuring performances by artists such as Emmylou Harris, Steve Earle, and Maren Morris. For Britpop fans, the Supersonic Weekender at Cattows Farm promises a celebration of the genre with tribute acts for popular bands like Blur, Oasis, and more. Additionally, the Ranch Jam Country Festival will pay homage to country and western legends like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton, complete with a wild west stunt show. The Dubs of Rock Festival will offer tributes to iconic rock acts such as Metallica and Kiss, providing a rock-filled weekend at Cattows Farm.
For horse racing enthusiasts, Leicester Racecourse will host a series of events throughout the summer, including the Smooth Radio Ladies Day featuring flat races and a concert by M People’s Heather Small and Go West. Families can enjoy the Picnic at the Races event, where under-18s are welcome free of charge. Motorcycle enthusiasts can head to Mallory Park for the 1000 Bikes Revival event, celebrating the track’s 70th anniversary with races, parades, and entertainment. Meanwhile, Donington Park Racetrack in the north of the county will host a range of competitions featuring cars and bikes, including the Touring Car Championship, the Superbike World Championship, and classic car events.
History buffs will have plenty to explore in Leicestershire this summer. The Victory Show, a three-day military event in Cosby, will bring together over 150 reenactment groups showcasing weapons, uniforms, and military vehicles from the Second World War. The Bosworth Medieval Festival will offer historical demonstrations, battle recreations, and talks by experts over a weekend in August. Belvoir Castle, known for its stunning Regency architecture, will host a variety of events, including a Father’s Day car and airshow, the Flower and Garden Show, and the Sky Glow hot air balloon festival.
With a packed calendar of events and activities, Leicestershire promises an unforgettable summer for all who visit. Whether you’re into music, motorsports, horse racing, or history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the county this season.